Former River Lion Javin DeLaurier Signs with Milwaukee Bucks
St. Catharines, ON - The Niagara River Lions are thrilled with the announcement that Javin DeLaurier has signed with the Milwaukee Bucks of the National Basketball Association (NBA), becoming the first ever player in River Lions and Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) history to sign with an NBA team. Following the 2021 CEBL season, DeLaurier attended Bucks training camp before suiting up for the Wisconsin Herd of the NBA G-League.
The 2021 CEBL Defensive Player of the Year runner up, averaged 10.5 rebounds, 14.8 points, 1.7 blocks and 1.2 steals in 11 games with the River Lions.
“It is an honour play a part in Javin’s journey to the NBA,” said Richard Petko, Founder of the CEBL. “To see one of our players graduate to the NBA after so many years is a huge chapter in our history. This is what our league is all about.”
After DeLaurier’s successful stint with the River Lions, he left mid season to play with the Atlanta Hawks in the NBA Summer League. He returned to help the River Lions advance to the 2021 CEBL Championship Game in Edmonton, Alberta, which further proved his team-first mentality and professionalism.
"To see a young man accomplish his dream is truly special. Javin was counted out coming out of Duke, and within 2 years turned himself into an NBA player,” said Head Coach and Co-General Manager Victor Raso. “I am thrilled for Javin and his family, and I am incredibly proud of the River Lions organization for helping a young mans dream become a reality."
“Javin is a special talent on the basketball court and a remarkable human being,” said Head of Basketball Operations and Co-General Manager, Antwi Atuahene. “From day 1, Javin trusted the River Lions organization and he worked extremely hard to achieve his goals. He is a trailblazer, and I couldn’t be more happy for him.”
Prior to his professional career the 6’10 forward played four years at Duke University, averaging 3.4 points, 3.8 rebounds and 0.7 steals in 13.4 minutes per game. He proved to be an integral member of the Blue Devils on and off the court, as he was named co-captain for his final two years and received the Bill Krzyzewski Captains’ Award during his senior season.
“I am tremendously happy for Javin and his family. I am proud he trusted the process and bet on himself,” said Gary Durrant, President of Durrant Sports Management who represents DeLaurier. “Javin is a true definition of hard work, loyalty and resilience.”
Media Contact:
Michelle Biskup – Vice President, Operations
905-802-1656
